The Speaker's Bureau

The Speaker's Bureau is a speaking/lecture series made up of veterans and historians. Our Slater Volunteer presenters share amazing stories of bravery and courage uncovered through the process of researching the primary sources. Speakers are available to present to different groups; these speaking engagements can be scheduled by contacting the SLATER Office via phone or email . Each program is 90 minutes.

Programs Offered:

Battle of the Atlantic: (available Saturdays and Sundays only)
The Battle of the Atlantic was the longest running battle of World War II. The stakes could not have been higher. With a fleet of U-boats at their disposal Nazi Germany menaced the lifeline of convoys to the United Kingdom. Though the U-boat threat was ultimately defeated, it was not a foregone conclusion. Through a combination of strategy, technology and dogged determination the Royal, United States and Royal Canadian Navies worked together and emerged victorious. The history of this fascinating conflict will be explored in a presentation to be delivered by USS SLATER volunteer and British expatriate William Trevor. The role destroyer escorts played in the defeat of the kriegsmarine will also be highlighted.

Heroes All Around Us: Destroyer Escorts and the Heroism of Ordinary Men During World War II:
This program explores the fascinating history of destroyer escorts, the USS SLATER and the lives of three men who served in the United States Navy during World War II and who are tied in some way to these trim but deadly warships. The first is Frank Slater, killed in action at Guadalcanal and for whom the USS SLATER is named. The second, Leonard Roy Harmon, coming from different circumstances but finding himself serving alongside Frank Slater aboard the USS SAN FRANCISCO, also lost his life and would receive the posthumous distinction of being the first African American to have a ship named in his honor. Finally, the remarkable story of a destroyer escort, the USS SAMUEL B ROBERTS will be examined, highlighting the actions of Paul Henry Carr.

Saving Slater:
This presentation is shares the story of the USS SLATER and why she was chosen to become the Destroyer Escort Historical Museum. Stories will be shared about the history of Destroyer Escorts, the SLATER'S involvement in WWII, her service in the Greek Navy, and all of her restoration turning her into a world class museum. Presented by a SLATER volunteer you will get a first-hand look at the hard work that goes into keeping the "Old Girl" afloat.